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Pet Emergency FAQs

A veterinary emergency is every pet owner's worst nightmare. Know how to identify a true pet emergency, how to administer first aid, and how to get your pet the lifesaving help he needs in time.

Can I Bring My Pet to Dessau Vet Clinic in an Emergency?

Dessau Vet Clinic serves patients in North Austin and Pflugerville from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Monday through Friday and from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Saturday. If your pet emergency occurs during our clinic hours, you can and should bring your pet in for treatment. Make sure to call ahead so our veterinarian can prepare properly to receive your pet.

If your pet emergency occurs outside of regular clinic hours, you should call an emergency animal hospital. We recommend Emergency Pet Care of Round Rock. You can contact them at 512-961-5200. Post this information on your refrigerator or program it into your phone's contact list for your convenience. 

How Do I Know If My Pet Needs Emergency Care?

Your pet will need emergency care if he experiences any severe trauma or injury, such as being hit by a car or taking a fall. Other circumstances that require emergency care can include bee and insect bites or stings, poisoning, heatstroke, or choking. If your pet exhibits any of the following symptoms, seek emergency care immediately:

  • Rapid breathing
  • Trouble standing
  • Loss of consciousness
  • Pale gums
  • Seizures
  • Rapid or weak pulse
  • A change of body temperature
  • Paralysis or apparent paralysis
  • Excessive bleeding

How Should I Approach an Ill or Injured Pet?

A pet that is frightened and in pain may not behave the same way as a healthy pet. Your pet may be aggressive, so it is important to approach him carefully, so you do not become injured yourself. Move slowly and calmly toward your pet, speaking his name softly. If he responds positively or is passive, you may lift him onto a makeshift stretcher or into a carrier to bring him to the vet. You may want to have someone call ahead to warn the clinic of your arrival.

Can I Perform First Aid on My Pet?

There may be some things you can do to stabilize your pet for the journey and increase his chances of survival. You can try to staunch any excessive bleeding by elevating the wound and applying pressure to it. If your pet appears to be choking, you may be able to remove the object lodged in his throat with his fingers. You may also administer the Heimlich maneuver to your pet by smacking him sharply on the chest. If your pet eats poison, call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 for advice.

Can I Give My Pet CPR?

You can give your pet CPR by pulling his head and neck straight, closing his muzzle, and blowing into his nostrils every three seconds. You can attempt to stimulate the heart by administering three rapid, firm chest compressions for every artificial respiration.

Location

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Office Hours

Our Regular Schedule

Monday:

7:00 am-12:00 pm

2:30 pm-6:00 pm

Tuesday:

7:00 am-12:00 pm

2:30 pm-6:00 pm

Wednesday:

7:00 am-12:00 pm

2:30 pm-6:00 pm

Thursday:

7:00 am-12:00 pm

2:30 pm-6:00 pm

Friday:

7:00 am-12:00 pm

2:30 pm-6:00 pm

Saturday:

8:00 am-12:00 pm

Sunday:

Closed

Testimonials

Read What Our Clients Say

  • "Dr. Campbell and all her coworkers are awesome! Mary remembers how each of my cats react when they come in to visit and even though they are very scared her and Dr. Campbell do everything they can to make it go as smoothly as possible for them. Even if I move out of the Dessau area I will continue to bring my cats here!"
    Izzy Roebuck
  • "Doc Campbell and crew show love and understanding for all their patients. We have used their services since 2005 for our fur family."
    Dora Ann Castro Rodriguez